METHOD The assessment is usually conducted orally, interactively and without notes or Bible, though it could be done in writing if the student prefers. Usually, the examining instructor conducts an informal interview by telephone or in person during which the student is asked open-ended questions to determine if he or she can demonstrate competent, current understanding of course content. •
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Biblical literature sample questions: Can you discuss the development of “covenant” through the canon? What is the big idea and major contribution of the book of Exodus? Please share your favorite minor prophet and discuss it with the examining instructor. Hermeneutics sample questions: How would you conduct a word study? What are the various pitfalls in word studies? Theology sample questions: What are the varying understandings of sin in Arminian, Wesleyan, Calvinist, Catholic, etc. understandings and which of these do you tend to agree with? Can you support your position with key Scripture passages?
Since there are numerous Bible, theology, spiritual formation, etc., courses required in each degree program, students will only be examined in the area(s) that they request.
EXCLUSIONS As students in the Online M.A. program are required to take the threshold and capstone courses on campus, no Advanced Standing or Advanced Substitutes will be granted for the following: •
MFM 500 Discovering and Developing Your Ministry Potential
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SFS 501 Learning to Love God and Others
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THS 508 Integrating Ministry and Theology
COMPETENCY STATEMENTS The following are the relevant competencies for the Bible and theology courses. They are exemplary of the type of current competency required in order to receive advanced standing/advanced substitutes. Be able to interpret and apply biblical texts using sound hermeneutical principles and the biblical languages. The student: is competent in the essential skills of the grammaticalhistorical approach to interpretation. knows the basic vocabulary and structure (grammar and syntax) of Greek and Hebrew.
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is able to translate and to interact theologically with the original text. is able to use a wide range of available tools (including electronic tools). is committed to using (and enhancing) language skills in the context of personal growth and future ministry. knows the major themes and developments of God’s redemptive activity revealed in Scripture. The student: understands the basic framework of biblical history. understands the major contribution of each book to the canon. understands the basic argument of each book and its relevance for contemporary ministry. knows the historical tenets and contemporary significance of evangelical theology and practice. The student: is able to articulate and defend biblically a personal understanding of key doctrines. understands the primary implications of these doctrines for life and ministry. understands how to theologically analyze contemporary issues confronting the church and society, and how to communicate meaningfully the fruit of that analysis.
TRANSFER OF CREDIT DEFINITION Students who have completed relevant graduate-level studies at another institution with a course grade of B or higher may be eligible for transfer credit. Normally, transfer credits are accepted from schools accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. For credit to be accepted by transfer, the student must be admitted to the M.A. program, and the previous work must be approximately parallel (80% or higher equivalence) to the content of a Western Seminary course as described in the Western Seminary’s catalog or syllabi. The course must have been completed within five years of the request for transfer of credit. If the prior studies were contained within a degree, not more than 50% of the prior credits may be accepted in transfer towards the Western Seminary degree. It is Western Seminary’s responsibility to determine the credit allowed. All credits counted towards a Western Seminary degree, including those accepted in transfer, must be earned within ten years of the awarding of the degree. Transfer credits do not show up in a student’s course history, and are only noted in number not in detail on a student transcript.